applesauce spice cake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best applesauce spice cake recipe

I’ve been making this applesauce spice cake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of moist applesauce, warm spices, and sweet vanilla is just perfect.

My kids love helping me mix the batter, and my husband can’t get enough of the aroma wafting from the oven. I’ve made this cake for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a Tuesday night dessert.

It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make and requires only a few ingredients you probably have on hand. I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years to make it even more delicious and convenient.

Now I’m excited to share it with you!

Applesauce Spice Cake

Applesauce Spice Cake

4.6 from 1755 votes

This moist and tender applesauce spice cake is packed with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It is an easy one-bowl cake that uses applesauce for natural sweetness and a soft crumb.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly combined.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
5Add the egg and beat until well incorporated, then mix in the applesauce and vanilla extract until smooth.
6Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or on low speed just until no streaks of flour remain.
7Do not overmix.
8Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
9Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
10Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
11If making the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

🔧Equipment

9-inch round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 340mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 30g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, use melted coconut oil or vegan butter instead of butter. The cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Watch Video Of How Applesauce Spice Cake Works

This applesauce spice cake is one of those recipes I turn to again and again because it is reliable and always a hit. To store it just wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in a sealed container on the counter for up to three days.

If you want to enjoy it later you can freeze the whole cake or individual slices for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature and it will taste fresh.

When it comes time to serve I like to warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them lightly in a skillet with a little butter. A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream makes it feel special but it is also wonderful on its own.

This cake is perfect for family gatherings because it pleases both kids and adults and it travels well so you can bring it anywhere. I hope you give it a try and make it your own.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Applesauce Spice Cake

Q: What is applesauce spice cake?

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the warmth of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a truly comforting dessert.

Q: Can I use store-bought applesauce?

While fresh applesauce is always best, store-bought will do in a pinch. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety to avoid adding extra sugar.

Q: How do I know if my cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Sure thing! You can mix the batter up to a day ahead of time or even freeze it for later use.

Q: What kind of spices should I use?

I like to stick with traditional cinnamon and nutmeg for their classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts